THINK EQUAL
An initiative to drive diversity and inclusion in leadership across the GCC Marcomms industry
What is THINK EQUAL?
THINK EQUAL is The Marketing Society’s initiative to drive diversity and inclusion in the GCC Marcomms industry by empowering more women into leadership.
Through events, mentoring, and research, we aim to accelerate progress by creating spaces for support, sparking inspiration, and delivering impactful programmes that help women break through barriers and step confidently into leadership roles.
This isn’t just about conversation it’s about action. By connecting ambition with opportunity, THINK EQUAL is reshaping the leadership landscape of our industry.
Our Strategic Priorities
Aligned to The Marketing Society’s values, THINK EQUAL focuses on:
Community
Spaces for peer support, honest conversations, and practical advice
Inspiration
High-impact moments that spark ambition and confidence
Acceleration
Smart, accessible programmes that deepen understanding and raise awareness
Together, these priorities unlock leadership potential, shift mindsets, and embed gender diversity into the heart of organisations.
Who is it for?
We focus on supporting two key groups of women in their leadership journey:
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Ambitious Achievers (10–15 years’ experience): Senior roles such as Head of Department, VP, or Client Service Director. These leaders need visibility, advocacy, and targeted development to progress to the C-suite
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Resilient Strivers (up to 10 years’ experience): Mid-career professionals such as Senior Marketing Managers or Account Directors. These rising talents need mentorship, confidence-building, and structured pathways to advance into senior leadership.
What We Offer
Practical initiatives designed to create real impact:
Senior Leadership Networking & Sponsorship
Peer-led sessions and curated opportunities to connect with leaders.
‘Think it Through’ Quick Consults
Confidential guidance from senior professionals.
WhatsApp Community
A real-time space for updates, support, and opportunities.
Book Club
A quarterly discussion on leadership and personal growth. – (Optional)
What's coming up
Upcoming events
Skills: The Leadership Accelerator by Think Equal
This six-month accelerator is designed to fast-track the careers of 12 exceptional female marketing and communication leaders in the UAE - equipping them with the skills, confidence and connections to step into their next big role.
Inspiration: Think Equal How to be Camera Ready | DUBAI
In today's digital world, visibility shapes influence and opportunity. Learn how to step confidently in front of the camera and build your personal brand with clarity and confidence.
Past Events
Highlights from Our Past Events
Inspiration: Think Equal Negotiate to Win | UAE
Negotiation is not just about price, it’s about confidence, planning, and emotional intelligence. This session led by Leanne Foy explored practical techniques to prepare, create constructive conflict, and manage emotions to achieve better results. Whether negotiating fees, promotions, or client contracts, success lies in structure and self-control.
Our Working Committee
A working committee of inspiring leaders from the industry has been put together to help lead the strategic focus and to shape activity:
- Anam Ahmad, Hanging House
- Kinda Al Issa, TikTok
- Annie Arsane, TikTok
- Beatriz Benedetti, BRF
- Reim El Houni, Ti22 FIlms
- Leanne Foy, Foy & Co. (Project Director)
- Anna George, Female Talent Agency
- Cherry Gore, Playbook
- Alasdair Hall-Jones,The Marketing Society
- Mohammed Ismaeel Hameedaldin, TOUGHLOVE Advisors
- Afnan Kazi, The Marketing Society
- Maya Khammar, Publicis
- Myrna Khoury, Epsilon
- Katie Plant, Weber Shandwick
- Nikki Samson, NS Search
- Ishana Tolani, Memac Ogilvy
- Ahmed Hamed, Marsh McLennan
THE PARTNERS
THINK EQUAL wouldn’t be possible without the support of our partners:
